| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from End of the Tether by Joseph Conrad: What could it be? and for half an hour he would remain
dead still, bent low over the desk, without twitching a
muscle. At his back the whole berth would be thick
with a heavy body of smoke, as if a bomb had burst
in there, unnoticed, unheard.
At last he would lock up the desk with the decision of
unshaken confidence, jump and go out. He would
walk swiftly back and forth on that part of the foredeck
which was kept clear of the lumber and of the bodies of
the native passengers. They were a great nuisance, but
they were also a source of profit that could not be dis-
End of the Tether |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Kenilworth by Walter Scott: at first found in conversing with him, wished him good evening,
and walked carelessly into the house, thus depriving Wayland of
every opportunity to speak with her in private. He hastened,
however, to attempt an explanation with Janet.
"Maiden," he said, "thou hast the face of one who should love her
mistress. She hath much need of faithful service."
"And well deserves it at my hands," replied Janet; "but
what of that?"
"Maiden, I am not altogether what I seem," said the pedlar,
lowering his voice.
"The less like to be an honest man," said Janet.
Kenilworth |
